Jumpin into Jan.

Even though Hat Yai is not nearly as incredible as the islands we recently visited, we've made it our own playground. There are more sights to see and things to do than Wes had imagined, plus I'd saved a few for when he got here. The first and foremost was dining at the all-you-can-eat Japanese hot pot and sushi place, Shabuku, which we couldn't wait to try. Not only because our absolute favourite sushi restaurant back at home had us going through withdrawals, but also since sushi is quite expensive here when you purchase rolls individually. So, the price was right on the buffet and we made sure our appetites were huge! With a 75 minute time limit we got started right away with the hot pot, boiling broth to cook various meats, vegetables and noodles in. The conveyor belt was constantly refilled with more interesting items to choose from, allowing us to concoct some delicious appetizers and soups. Then there was the sushi section, ornate trays displaying an array of fresh rolls, tempuras and sauces. Even though nothing will ever measure up to Ko's back home, we were still satisfied and definitely got our fill, with all of the little plates we took stacking about five feet high!

After over an hour of gorging, we figured it'd be best to get some exercise. Plus, this was an opportunity to cross another thing off our list. Since we'd eaten on the first level of Lee Garden Plaza (the highest building in Hat Yai), we hiked it all the way up to the top floor.

The view undoubtedly made it worthwhile, showcasing the expansive city (once again). Within the next few days we witnessed vibrant rainbows popping up twice, right off our balcony.

Hat Yai always brings new surprises, and we discovered another great pub that I'd shrugged off since my first visit in November. We met up with my girlfriends there the following weekend for five litre TOWERS of Chang for ridiculously inexpensive. If you're not a beer drinker before a tower, you sure are after. This bargain enticed us back the next night as well, unquestionably going to be another thing we'll miss about living in Thailand! Only one month left...

P.S. Wes has sailed off to Ko Phi Phi to chill with my brother until the weekend when I will meet them on a neighbouring island! The excitement never stops!